Once IT consultant, now innovative musician, Yamazaki, born Benedek Rakovics, takes a bold step in his musical evolution with “Hanei,” a striking blend of folktronica, synthwave, and ambient soundscapes. The single gets behind the art of shattering your insecurities and inabilities to chase the goose of authenticity with electrifying music.
Opening with building beats and soulful harmonies, “Hanei” quickly transitions into sharp, biting rap verses. Yamazaki comes fast and furious. His lines flow smoothly from line to line with hooky, catchy flow over haunting, distant echoing vocalizations. As the track progresses, his rapping gives way to soaring, passionate singing, punctuated by pounding and pattering acoustic drums and melodic guitar riffs that drive the track forward with unrelenting energy.
Originally conceptualized as a synth-wave ambient piece, “Hanei” transformed during production with the addition of electric guitars and dynamic drumlines. These elements lend the track a rich, bursting vitality, while its folktronica core ties the modern sound to Yamazaki’s deep cultural and spiritual roots.
The lyrics, sung in Japanese, weave a vivid narrative of transformation and self-discovery. Symbolic imagery, such as a white wolf crossing a broken bridge and a child freed from chains, represents rebirth and liberation. These visuals pair seamlessly with the song’s thematic ambition, urging listeners to confront their own limitations and embrace an unknown but promising future.
Drawing inspiration from K-pop, Japanese synth-wave, and global artists like John Legend and Bang Yongguk, Yamazaki melds cultural heritage with contemporary flair. Stay tuned, because Yamazaki’s upcoming album Katsu is well underway.
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Review by: Naomi Joan